Baking for the Wicked

Mr. S’s Veggie Hawaii Toast

There is nothing Hawaiian about Hawaii Toast. The sandwich was invented by German TV chef Clemens Wilmenrod in the 1950s, and has caused considerable confusion ever since. A German friend once told me that while vacationing on Maui he asked for Hawaii Toast in the hotel restaurant, only to be met with a stony and uncomprehending stare. Nevertheless, this little retro dish is a cultural gem, and it’s great for when you can’t decide if you want something sweet or savory, or when you simply don’t feel like cooking something difficult. Hawaii Toast is normally made with ham, but Mr. S makes it veggie style. You will find this little sandwich delightfully easy to assemble, and refreshingly delicious!

MR S’S VEGGIE HAWAII TOAST

toast bread, or sandwich style bread

butter or vegan margarine

veggie meat, sliced thinly, or deli style

pineapple rings

schmelzkäse (i.e. processed cheese slices like Kraft- you can also use vegan slices)

Heat your oven to 425ºF (220ºC). On a pan, butter and arrange your bread, and top with first the veggie meat, then a pineapple slice. Put your cherry tomato in the center and cover with cheese. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is a little browned, and all gooey. So easy, even bachelors and children can make it!

2 thoughts on “Mr. S’s Veggie Hawaii Toast”

Super lazy bachelor version: don’t butter the bread, use a slice of cheese instead. Use parchment paper on the pan. Let the toasts cool enough to eat them with your hand, and use the parchment paper as your plate. Voilà, no dishes or tools to clean!